**Di María's Impressive Goal Statistics at Benfica: A Closer Look**
As one of the most prolific strikers in European football history, Lionel Messi has made his mark on various clubs throughout his career. However, his journey to becoming one of the best in the world began with a club where he first honed his skills and established himself as a key player. In this article, we will take a closer look at Di María's impressive goal statistics at Benfica.
### Early Career Beginnings
Lionel Messi joined Benfica in 2004, shortly after completing his schooling. The Portuguese club was known for its strong youth academy and had already produced many talented players, including Cristiano Ronaldo and Rui Costa. Despite not being the star of the academy, Messi quickly impressed and started making significant contributions to the team.
### Goals and Assists
At Benfica, Messi became one of the league's top scorers and assist creators. During his time there, he scored over 100 goals across all competitions, including the UEFA Champions League,Primeira Liga Tracking Copa del Rey, and Liga Nacional. His ability to score from long distances and create opportunities for teammates was particularly notable.
Here is a breakdown of some of Messi's impressive numbers:
- **Goals**: Over 100 goals in all competitions (league + cup)
- **Assists**: Around 50 assists in all competitions
- **Champions League Goals**: 27 goals in the UEFA Champions League
- **Copa del Rey Goals**: 18 goals in the Copa del Rey
- **League Goals**: 62 goals in the Liga Nacional
### Impact on Benfica
Messi's impact on Benfica extended beyond just scoring goals. He was instrumental in developing young talent within the squad and played a crucial role in helping the team win several domestic titles. His leadership and vision helped guide the team towards success, often playing a pivotal role in crucial moments during matches.
### Transition to Other Clubs
After leaving Benfica in 2009, Messi moved to Barcelona, where he continued to excel. His performance at Barcelona cemented his status as one of the greatest footballers of all time. However, his time at Benfica remains a highlight of his career, showcasing his early development and potential as one of the world's best strikers.
In conclusion, Lionel Messi's impressive goal statistics at Benfica demonstrate his rapid ascent to the pinnacle of professional football. From his early days as a teenager to his emergence as one of the greatest players of all time, Messi's journey at Benfica laid the foundation for his future successes.